Steelers' Cam Heyward Attributes Mike Tomlin's Comprehensive Coaching For Late Season Success In 2023

The Pittsburgh Steelers had a season full of ups and downs in 2023. They had injuries and/or poor play that caused all three quarterbacks on the roster to play, and former Offensive Coordinator Matt Canada to be fired. After Kenny Pickett suffered an injury against the Arizona Cardinals, Mitchell Trubisky stepped in and went 0-2 in games started. Third-string quarterback Mason Rudolph stepped up and stepped in behind center to lead the Steelers to a surprising playoff appearance where they would suffer a loss to the Buffalo Bills. According to defensive tackle and 13-year veteran, Cam Heyward, Head Coach Mike Tomlin's coaching never changed, no matter what the season threw at him and his team. 

Heyward recently made an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show where he highlighted Tomlin's coaching methods and what the name Mike Tomlin means to him. 

"Consistent leadership," is how Heyward described Tomlin. "There's never a message that either doesn't resonate with you, or gets misconceived."

This past season saw multiple season-ending injuries, game costing mistakes, and harmful suspensions for the Steelers. There were multiple positions that saw the organization bring in practice squad players or have players from other positions fill roles. No matter what, Coach Tomlin gave every player the same advice. 

"Do what we've done to get to this point." 

Even with practice squad players, the Steelers still finished 6th in points allowed per game. It is clear Tomlin's players love playing for him and feed into his advice and message, no matter the struggle. Tomlin has been voted as one of the coaches players would most like to play for in an anonymous player poll. With championships, championship appearances, and winning seasons, it is clear that players love playing for Mike Tomlin. Heyward continued on about his coach. 

"I think for every player, it's about living up to the standard he sets."

With Pickett, Trubisky, and Rudolph gone, the Steelers have brought in three new quarterbacks to replace them: Former Denver Broncos starting quarterback, Russell Wilson, former Chicago Bears starting quarterback, Justin Fields, and former Buffalo Bills backup, Kyle Allen. All will be given the same exact gameplan by Coach Mike Tomlin, and that is to win and be consistent.

Tomlin's main focus seems to be player mindset; he wants his players to stay disciplined no matter what kind of adversity is faced. Execution is important, but if you're not in the right mindset, it can still be lackluster. Tomlin preaches nothing but how to win, which can be shown by his 17 non-losing seasons and one Super Bowl victory. 

The 2024 season is looking to be another interesting season for the Steelers. With many free agent additions and players acquired from trades, the team looks to be set for success. A brand new quarterback room, along with defensive and special teams additions, the Steelers are looking to jump back into playoff and possibly Super Bowl contention. 

Whoever the Steelers select in the draft will be under Coach Tomlin, and will be coached the exact same way rookies, veterans, and anyone in between has been coached. Whether they're on pace to win the Super Bowl, or are losing every game, Coach Tomlin will preach excellence. Players brought in through free agency will see a type of coaching they may not be used to, but will be better for it. 

Do yinz think Tomlin's coaching style will be successful in the upcoming season? What changes would you make? Let us know by leaving a